A comparative analysis of built-in dishwashers’ wash cycles reveals that nearly half (49%) offer 6 wash cycles, making it the most common configuration in today’s market (see the comparative chart). The Midea MDF18A1AST fits squarely into this dominant category, offering a balanced range of cycles without overwhelming the user. Designed as a built-in unit with 8 place settings and a 52 dB noise level, it’s tailored for smaller kitchens seeking quiet, efficient performance. It’s not overloaded with features but hits the essentials right where they matter.
Read on to discover why the Midea MDF18A1AST strikes a sweet spot for compact kitchen needs, or check out our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict and pricing history.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
Midea MDF18A1AST Price History:
Pros:
- Energy Star certified
- 6 wash cycles for varied needs
- Sanitize and Hi-Temp options
- Digital display with front control
- Stainless steel interior
- Child lock safety feature
Cons:
- No smart features or Wi-Fi
- High water consumption per hour
- No adjustable or third rack
- Lacks built-in water softener
- No air dry or auto door open
A Market-Wide Look: Where the Midea MDF18A1AST Excels
💰 The Price Range Spectrum: Every Bracket at a Glance
The Midea MDF18A1AST falls within the $419 to $631 range, which includes 31% of built-in dishwashers, making it part of the most populated pricing category. This places it at the budget-to-mid-range level, offering accessibility without sacrificing essential features.
Higher price tiers like $632 to $844 (27%) and $845 to $1057 (22%) are less crowded but offer more premium features. The Midea MDF18A1AST strikes a solid balance, delivering core performance at a widely accessible price point.
🔇 From Whisper to Roar: Placing Noise Levels in Perspective
Operating at 52 dB, the Midea MDF18A1AST sits in the [50 dB to 53 dB] category, where 30% of built-in dishwashers fall. This range represents the industry standard for quiet performance, suitable for most households without drawing attention.
Slightly quieter models in the [42 dB to 45 dB] range make up the largest group at 32%, while louder options beyond 54 dB are less common. While not whisper-quiet, the Midea MDF18A1AST maintains a comfortable noise profile for everyday use.
⚖️ Dishwasher Weight Rankings: How Does It Compare?
Weighing in at 54.6 lbs, the Midea MDF18A1AST falls within the [45 lb to 62.7 lb] range, which includes 14% of built-in dishwashers. This makes it one of the lighter models in its category, offering easier handling during installation.
Most built-in models cluster in the [80.7 lb to 98.4 lb] range (42%), prioritizing robust build over ease of movement. While its lightweight nature supports simple setup, it may feel slightly less substantial compared to heavier alternatives.
🍽️ Capacity Check: Comparing Place Settings Across Top Models
With an 8 place setting capacity, the Midea MDF18A1AST is positioned in the [7 to 8 place setting] category, which represents 16% of built-in dishwashers. It’s a good fit for couples, small families, or compact kitchens where space is limited.
Larger models with 13 to 16 place settings dominate the market (66% combined), designed for high-traffic kitchens. While this unit may not suit big households, its compact capacity is a strength for those prioritizing space efficiency.
🔄 Wash Cycle Comparison: How This Model Matches Up
The Midea MDF18A1AST offers 6 wash cycles, placing it in the largest category for built-in dishwashers, shared by 49% of models. This level of functionality hits a market sweet spot—enough versatility for daily needs without being overly complex.
Fewer cycles (3–5) are found in 26% of models, while higher-end dishwashers with 7 to 10 cycles make up a smaller slice. This dishwasher’s 6-cycle setup delivers a practical, feature-rich experience in line with what most users expect.
Midea MDF18A1AST Dishwasher
Unpacking the Midea MDF18A1AST: Ratings and Key Specs
The awesome team at WashDryDazzle took the Midea MDF18A1AST under-counter dishwasher for a spin just for you. We wanted to see if it’s as dazzling as it sounds. Our goal? To help you make the best choice for your kitchen.
💵 Price and Design (4.5/5)
Priced at around $450, the Midea MDF18A1AST offers a sleek, modern look available in silver, black, or white finishes, making it easy to match various kitchen interiors. At 18 inches wide, it’s ideal for smaller kitchen spaces, without compromising on usability. The front control panel features push-button controls and a digital display with cycle progress indicators, keeping operation simple and intuitive. Though it lacks smart features, its solid build and user-friendly interface offer excellent value for this price point.
| Price | $450 |
| Height | 34 inches |
| Width | 18 inches |
| Depth | 25 inches |
| Weight | 54.6 pounds |
| Color | Sliver/ Black / White |
| Control Panel Location | Front Control |
| Display | Digital |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Push Button |
| Cycle status/progress indicator on display | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Enabled (Smart Dishwasher) | No |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | N/A |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.6/5)
With 6 wash cycles including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse, the Midea MDF18A1AST handles most everyday cleaning needs with ease. It comes with three key options: Heated Dry, Hi-Temp at 136 °F (58 °C), and a Sanitize cycle that reaches up to 156.2 °F (69 °C). The dual spray arms and multi-zone cleaning system deliver thorough coverage, while the removable filter ensures simple maintenance. For better performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned at least once a week.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 6 (Heavy, Normal, ECO, Delicate, Quick, and Rinse) |
| Specialized Cycles | N/A |
| Number of Options / Functions | 3 (Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize) |
| Number of Spray Arms | 2 |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual/Removeable Filter) | Removable filter |
| Sanitization | Yes (Sanitize function mentioned) |
| Delay Start Timer | 1-24 hours delay start |
| Targeted washing zones | multi-spray arm cleaning system. |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | Yes |
| Option / Function # 01 | HEATED DRY: When the Heated Dry option is selected, the heater will work during the drying process. The Heated Dry process adds time to the wash cycle. |
| Option / Function # 02 | HI TEMP: When the Hi Temp option is selected, the water temperature will be maintained at 136°F (58°C) maximum during the wash portion of the cycle. |
| Option / Function # 03 | SANITIZE: When Sanitize is selected, the temperature of water will be maintained at 156.2°F (69°C) max. The maximum temperature may not be reached if the incoming water temperature is not correct. |
💨 Drying Performance (4.3/5)
The Midea MDF18A1AST uses heated air drying, which actively warms the interior to evaporate moisture. Heat air drying uses heated air to evaporate moisture from dishes after the wash cycle. During the drying process, warm air circulates inside the dishwasher to ensure plates, utensils, and other items are thoroughly dried and ready for immediate use. While it lacks advanced features like auto door opening or air refresh, it does support rinse aid, which helps reduce water spots and improves drying outcomes, especially on plastics and glassware.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | Heated Dry |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | N/A |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | N/A |
| Rinse aid availability | Yes |
| Built-in Water Softener (For Hard Water) | N/A |
🔕 Noise Level (4.4/5)
Rated at 52 dB, the Midea MDF18A1AST operates quietly. To put the 52 dB noise level into perspective, standing about five feet away from the dishwasher would sound similar to a quiet conversation or the gentle hum of a modern refrigerator, which would be noticeable when paying attention, but otherwise, it feels quiet. It’s on par with competitors like the Frigidaire FFBD1831US, EdgeStar BIDW1802WH, and SPT SD-9254W, all of which also operate at 52 dB. In comparison, models like the Gudsunal WQP4 6207 run louder, at around 60 dB, which is closer to the noise level of a regular conversation.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.7/5)
Certified by ENERGY STAR® (Energy Star-certified appliances meet strict energy efficiency standards set by the EPA, using less energy and reducing environmental impact), the Midea MDF18A1AST balances performance with power savings. A Normal Cycle with Heat Drying, running 120 minutes, would use approximately 1.09 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. To put this into perspective, this is similar to running a 1-ton AC on full load for about 65 minutes.
Energy consumption for running this dishwasher daily on Normal Cycle with Heat Drying for 30 days = 1.09 kWh/day x 30 days = 32.7 kWh/month. The 1–24 hour delay start adds flexibility, allowing you to run cycles during off-peak energy hours or at your convenience.
| Energy Star rating | ENERGY STAR® |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 32.7 kWh/month for Daily use of Normal Cycle with Heat Drying |
| Voltage Required | 120 Volts |
| Delay Start Timer | 1-24 hours delay start |
💧 Water Usage (3.5/5)
The Midea MDF18A1AST uses around 15.5 gallons (58.7 liters) per hour, which is notably higher compared to several competitors. For instance, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US and EdgeStar BIDW1802WH use about 5.2 gallons (19.7 liters) in Heavy Cycle, and the SPT SD-9254W consumes only 3.1 gallons (11.7 liters) in Normal Cycle. While the cleaning is thorough, this higher water consumption may be a drawback for eco-conscious users or those seeking to reduce their utility bills.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 15.5 Gallons per Hour |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.4/5)
The dishwasher offers a range of cycle durations to suit different needs. The Heavy program takes 155 minutes, while the Normal cycle runs between 25 and 145 minutes, depending on the soil level. The ECO cycle lasts 130 minutes, Delicate takes 105 minutes, Quick finishes in 60 minutes, and the Rinse cycle wraps up in just 20 minutes. This flexibility allows users to balance time, energy, and intensity according to the workload.
For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.2/5)
Designed for 8 place settings (A Place Setting is defined further down in this section), this dishwasher is ideal for couples or small families. The two-rack setup features cutlery baskets and cup shelves, providing sufficient flexibility to accommodate various dish sizes and shapes, including plates up to 11 inches in diameter. While it lacks an adjustable rack system, the internal layout still supports practical organization for everyday use.
| Number of Place Settings | 8 Place Settings |
| Dish or Plate Size a Rack can Accumulate | 11 inches |
| Number of Racks | 2 |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | Yes (Cutlery Basket, Versatile Cup Shelves) |
| Adjustable height of Rack | No |
8 – Place Setting Dishwasher:
A place setting refers to the dishes and utensils needed for one person’s meal. In dishwashers, it indicates the number of such sets the appliance can handle in one cycle.
A 8-place setting dishwasher is designed to wash 8 dinner plates, 8 dessert plates, 8 soup bowls, 8 cups, 8 glasses, and 8 sets of cutlery in one cycle.
In reality, the exact combination can vary due to item sizes and shapes. For example, you might fit 8 dinner plates, 8 dessert plates, 6 soup bowls, 6 cups, 4 glasses, and 8 sets of cutlery comfortably in a 8-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.6/5)
This model features essential safety features, including a child lock, which helps prevent unintended operation during cycles. Additionally, the dishwasher is equipped with a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place during operation. However, do not place or use the machine on an unstable or uneven platform. For safe operation, avoid placing the dishwasher near gas or electric burners. Additionally, avoid using extension cords or adapter plugs.
| Child lock – Safety Feature | Yes |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safey Feature | Overflow triggers error codes. |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.5/5)
With a stainless steel interior and finish, the Midea MDF18A1AST is designed to withstand the test of time. Stainless steel is a strong, corrosion-resistant material prized for its durability, sleek appearance, and ability to withstand high temperatures and exposure to moisture without rusting or degrading. The dishwasher is sturdy, but avoid overloading the top surface with heavy items. It comes with a 1-year warranty.
To keep your warranty valid, use the product only as intended (not for commercial or non-household use), follow the instruction manual, and avoid misuse, mishandling, accidents, neglect, or abuse, as these are not covered under the warranty.
Wash Cycles Available on the Midea MDF18A1AST
Designed for efficient cleaning, the Midea MDF18A1AST fixed dishwasher offers multiple wash cycles that handle everything from light rinses to heavy-duty messes. Here’s what you can expect from each cycle:
| Cycle Name | When to Use | Cycle Time | Water Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy | For pots, pans, casseroles, and dinnerware with dried-on or baked-on soil | 155 mins | 4.9 gallons |
| Normal | For a full load of normally soiled dishes; recommended with Heated Dry option | 25–145 mins | 2.5–4.9 gallons |
| ECO | For normally soiled tableware; most efficient in energy and water use | 130 mins | 4.1 gallons |
| Delicate | For lightly soiled loads like glasses, crystal, and fine china | 105 mins | 4.1 gallons |
| Quick | For lightly soiled items like glasses, crystal, and fine china | 60 mins | 3.3 gallons |
| Rinse | For pre-rinsing dishes or glasses to prevent food from drying and reduce odor | 20 mins | 1.8 gallons |
Detailed Pros And Cons Of Midea MDF18A1AST
Pros
- ENERGY STAR® certified for improved energy efficiency and environmental impact.
- Offers 6 versatile wash cycles including ECO, Heavy, and Quick.
- Includes 3 key functions: Heated Dry, Hi-Temp, and Sanitize.
- Built-in delay start timer ranges from 1 to 24 hours.
- Front control panel with digital display and cycle status indicator.
- Uses a removable filter system for easy maintenance.
- Stainless steel interior for long-term durability and corrosion resistance.
- Quiet operation at 52 dB, similar to a soft conversation.
- 8 place settings with racks that hold plates up to 11 inches.
- Rinse aid dispenser helps reduce water spots on dishes.
- Child lock and non-slip base for added safety.
- Multi-spray arm system ensures targeted, consistent cleaning.
- Compact 18-inch built-in design fits most narrow kitchen spaces.
- Lightweight at 54.6 lbs for easier installation compared to heavier models.
- High-temp wash reaches 136°F (58°C); sanitize option reaches 156.2°F (69°C).
- Washes with soil sensors to optimize water and energy use.
- Dual spray arms for improved dish coverage and cleaning results.
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or smart home assistant compatibility
- Lacks features like auto door opening or fresh air circulation
- No built-in water softener for hard water areas
- Lacks specialized or custom wash cycles beyond standard 6
- Slightly louder than ultra-quiet dishwashers below 48 dB
Midea MDF18A1AST Dishwasher
Who Makes the Best Use of Midea MDF18A1AST Dishwasher
- Small families or couples looking for a reliable built-in dishwasher that doesn’t overpower a modest kitchen layout.
- Busy professionals who want set-it-and-forget-it functionality with delayed start and dependable daily performance.
- Eco-conscious users who value ENERGY STAR certification and smart cycle options to reduce power consumption.
- New parents who appreciate the peace of mind from a sanitize option for baby bottles and feeding gear.
- People in apartments or condos where an 18-inch built-in unit is a better fit than a full-size model.
- Safety-conscious homeowners who need a dishwasher with a child lock and dependable leak alerts.
- Those upgrading from hand washing and want something modern, quiet, and easy to operate.
- Renters or owners of smaller homes who prioritize compactness and essential features over luxury extras.
Who Might Skip Midea MDF18A1AST Dishwasher
- Large families who regularly run multiple loads and need more than 8 place settings per cycle.
- Tech enthusiasts looking for smart home features like app control, Wi-Fi connectivity, or voice assistant integration.
- People in hard water areas who need a built-in water softener to avoid mineral buildup.
- Frequent hosts or entertainers needing a dishwasher that accommodates oversized platters or more flexible rack options.
- Buyers focused on ultra-low water usage who might prefer a model with more efficient water consumption.
- Those needing fast turnaround times and prefer ultra-short wash cycles for quick kitchen resets.
- Homeowners wanting a third rack or adjustable racks for better organization and loading variety.
- Users expecting high-end finishes or premium drying technologies like auto door opening or fresh air drying
Top Replacement Options for Midea MDF18A1AST
🔄 Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US is a reliable 18-inch built-in dishwasher with 8 place settings and adjustable racks, offering solid versatility for daily dishwashing needs. It features 6 wash cycles, including a 1-hour wash and China/Crystal mode, and runs quietly at 52 dB. Its ENERGY STAR® certification, sanitize option, and ADA compliance make it an appealing choice for efficient and accessible dishwashing. With stainless steel durability and easy-to-use tactile controls, it’s built for long-term performance.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher Review.
Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher
🔄 EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher
Compact and capable, the EdgeStar BIDW1802WH comes with 6 wash cycles and 3 key options, including sanitize and heated dry. Its stainless-steel interior, adjustable upper rack, and 52 dB quiet operation make it ideal for modest households. While not flashy, it excels in practicality with a leak sensor, delay start, and rinse aid support. A solid everyday performer, it offers thoughtful features without overcomplicating the user experience.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher Review.
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher
🔄 SPT SD-9254W Dishwasher
The SPT SD-9254W delivers dependable functionality in a compact form. It supports 8 place settings, offers 6 wash cycles, and uses just 3.1 gallons per cycle in Normal mode, which is notably efficient. Its heated dry system, child lock, and ENERGY STAR® certification make it both family-friendly and eco-conscious. With multi-spray arm cleaning and intuitive digital controls, it’s a strong contender for anyone needing a straightforward, space-saving dishwasher.
Discover all the details in our thorough SPT SD-9254W Dishwasher Review.
SPT SD-9254W Dishwasher
Our Closing Take on Midea MDF18A1AST Dishwasher Review
If you’re looking for a compact built-in dishwasher that ticks all the essential boxes without straying into premium territory, the Midea MDF18A1AST holds its own well. With 6 wash cycles, ENERGY STAR efficiency, a sanitize option, and a straightforward control panel, it delivers solid performance for everyday dishwashing. While it doesn’t offer smart features or advanced drying, its ease of use, quiet operation, and reliable cleaning power make it a practical choice.
If you’re ready to simplify your kitchen routine without overcomplicating your space, this dishwasher is worth adding to your shortlist. Take a closer look before making your final decision.
Midea MDF18A1AST Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many place settings can the Midea MDF18A1AST hold?
It holds up to 8 place settings, which is great for daily use in small households or apartments.
Does this dishwasher support a sanitize function for better hygiene?
Yes, it includes a sanitize option that heats water up to 156.2°F (69°C) for extra cleaning power.
Is the Midea MDF18A1AST a quiet dishwasher model?
Yes, it operates at 52 dB, which is similar to a soft conversation or a modern refrigerator hum.
Is this dishwasher energy efficient for daily use?
Yes, it’s ENERGY STAR® certified and uses about 32.7 kWh per month with Normal and Heat Dry cycles.
What drying method does this dishwasher use?
It uses heated drying with a rinse aid option to reduce spots and improve overall drying results.
Can this dishwasher handle oversized dinner plates or cookware?
Plates up to 11 inches fit fine, but oversized items or deep cookware may be a tight squeeze.
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Keeping Your Dishwasher Clean and Functioning Smoothly
A clean and well-maintained dishwasher not only performs better but also lasts longer. Check out these articles from our website to keep your dishwasher in peak working order:
- Dishwasher Running For Too Long? 7 Unexpected Causes and Quick Fixes!
- How to Fix a Dishwasher Troubleshooting and Repair
- How to Remove and Prevent Mold in Your Dishwasher
- Dishwasher Problems Caused by Hard Water and How to Fix Them
- Dishwasher Not Heating Water? Uncover Possible Reasons
